Following a six-week lapse in reporting due to the government shutdown, the USDA has released its first Crop Progress Report. As of Sunday, winter wheat planting in the state is nearly complete at 93%, just slightly below the 5-year average of 95%. Of the winter wheat planted, 73% has emerged—down from the 5-year average of 83%—and 53% of the crop is rated in good to excellent condition.
The USDA also reported that there were 6.4 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending November 16th. Statewide average temperatures reached 48.6 degrees, which is 6.1 degrees above normal for this time of year. Precipitation averaged 0.63 inches, which is 0.63 inches below normal.
Soil Moisture Conditions:
Moisture Supply Topsoil Subsoil
Very Short 32% 30%
Short 34% 42%
Adequate 32% 27%
Surplus 2% 1%
Winter Wheat Condition:
Very Poor: 9%
Poor: 9%
Fair: 29%
Good: 43%
Excellent: 10%
Harvest progress for other major crops is nearly complete as well. Corn harvested reached 98%, slightly ahead of the 5-year average of 97%. Soybean harvest is also at 98%, matching the 5-year average.